USC pulled off a stunning trick play during their matchup against Northwestern on Friday night, showcasing third-string quarterback Sam Huard in a surprising role.
In the second quarter, Huard took the field wearing a No. 80 jersey, the same number sported by the Trojans” punter, which added an element of deception to the play. He successfully completed a 10-yard pass to Tanook Hines, securing a crucial first down that kept the Trojans” drive alive. This drive culminated in a touchdown run by Jayden Maiava.
This clever maneuver was well within the rules, as Huard, who previously wore No. 7 earlier this season, was listed as No. 80 on the USC roster following a quiet change made by head coach Lincoln Riley”s team. Interestingly, USC punter Sam Johnson also dons the No. 80 jersey.
Huard, who is slightly shorter than the 6-foot-3 Johnson, couldn”t hide his excitement as he celebrated with teammates after the play. The former five-star recruit began his collegiate journey at Washington.
A similar tactic was seen last season when Bowling Green executed a fake punt during the 68 Ventures Bowl in Mobile, Alabama. In that instance, third-string quarterback Baron May switched his uniform number from 8 to 18 to mimic punter John Henderson, who wore No. 19. May also successfully threw a 43-yard touchdown pass during that game, but ultimately, Arkansas State came back to win 38-31.
